The Verdict: For all its dynamic goodness, the Vue is let down by an as-tested price that is as hefty as its curb weight.

What we didn't overlook was the Vue's new clothes. GM tells us that the Vue/Antara's styling was a global effort, but the design has a strong Asian influence, especially from behind. At best, it's almost Lexus RX350-like, but there is a clear and strong Hyundai/Kia influence that leads us to suspect that GM's Korean subsidiary, Daewoo, had a hand in penning the new Vue. Aside from Saturn badging, the exterior is identical to that of the Opel Antara.

Compared with last year's Vue, the new one comes with a price increase of more than $2500. What the extra dough gets you is a far superior driving experience, a well-executed interior, more equipment, but more weight. Our Vue XR AWD had leather seats and premium trim ($1075), navigation ($2145), a $505 Convenience package (rain-sensing wipers, remote start, heated washer fluid), and a few other options, and that ballooned the bottom line to an incentive-ready $31,115. An equally equipped RAV4-but navigation isn't offered-is $30,593; a four-cylinder-only CR-V is loaded at $28,820. Equipped thusly, the Vue finds itself in a segment occupied by the larger Ford Edge, Honda Pilot, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander. We suspect the sweet spot of the Vue lineup might be the mid-level model equipped with the 3.5-liter engine. If that model keeps the dynamic excellence of the pricey XR, the smaller pushrod engine is appropriately subdued, and the price stays in the mid-$20,000s, Saturn will have a winner on its hands. At more than $31,000, the Vue becomes less rosy.

Talk back in the forums:
We liked the 2008 Saturn Vue, but what do you think of GM's latest Opel re-badge?